Consulta Plantas

Care of the shrub Callistemon viminalis or Weeping Bottlebrush

The genus Callistemon, family Myrtaceae, includes 40 species of trees and shrubs native to Australia. Some species are: Callistemon viminalis, Callistemon rugulosus, Callistemon pallidus, Callistemon glaucus, Callistemon citrinus, Callistemon quadrifidus, Callistemon linearis, Callistemon subulatus.

Common names: Red Bottlebrush, Weeping Bottlebrush, Drooping Bottlebrush. This species is endemic to New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia.

They are shrubs or evergreen trees with elegant hanging branches that reach 8 meters (26.24 feet) in height. The leaves are alternate, lanceolate, green in color and end in a sharp point. The flowers are red and appear in spikes up to 10 cm (3.93") long. They bloom in spring and summer; they are able to bloom also in autumn (with fewer flowers).

Red Bottlebrush is used to form screens, to fix slopes or as isolated specimens; they can be grown next to ponds and streams. It's an ideal plant for streets and public parks due to its tolerance to pollution from cities. A sweet drink is obtained by soaking the inflorescences in water. It attracts bees and birds.

Callistemon viminalis can be grown in full sun and semi-shade exposures. It does not resist frost well.

Weeping Bottlebrush prefers well-drained and moist soils but can grow in waterlogged soils.

Water regularly, waiting for the soil to dry out.

Drooping Bottlebrush does not need fertilizers.

Prune after flowering to keep it compact and eliminate wilted flowers.

Callistemon viminalis can be attacked by mealybugs and thrips.

Red Bottlebrush propagates by seeds sown in spring that germinate in 1-4 weeks or by semi-woody cuttings.

Images of the shrub Callistemon viminalis or Weeping Bottlebrush